Swazi Observer

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BLEAK FESTIVE IN BULL'S KRAAL

By Melusi Mlotsa | 2024-12-29

SOCCER – THE festive season brought little to no cheer for embattled Mbabane Highlanders players, as the club’s Managing Director Chief Ally Kgomongwe continued to withhold their salaries amidst ongoing internal conflicts.

Reports indicate that Kgomongwe prioritised payments to former coach Mthunzi Ginindza, physical trainer Christian Thwala, and former team manager Simiso ‘Space’ Jele, who received their December salaries alongside Christmas gifts.

The trio, who have recently left the club to join Botswana Premier League side Extension Gunners, spent the holidays in Eswatini before their expected return to Botswana on Monday.

In a statement yesterday, Kgomongwe confirmed that the former staff members were paid while also acknowledging that the current players had not received their salaries.

However, Melusi ‘Mega’ Magagula, who recently recovered from a long-term injury, is set to receive his December salary.

“I can confirm that I have paid the trio their December salaries along with gifts. I am preparing to pay ‘Mega’. They are my people,” he said.

Kgomongwe attributed the suspension of players’ payments to unresolved power struggles within the club, stating he would resume payments only once these issues were resolved.

“I have no problem paying the players’ salaries, but only when they have resolved these issues. I heard that they have new people who will take care of them.

However, I feel pity for these players and will try to send them E1 000 each before the New Year so that they buy something,” he added.

The financial strain has left the players in a difficult position during the festive season. Reports suggest that key players, including Philani Mkhonto and Kenneth Moloto, may leave the club during the January transfer window. Additionally, South African striker Thabiso Mokonkane has reached the end of his contract, further depleting the team’s resources.

The ongoing challenges have also affected the club’s performance on the field. Mbabane Highlanders, a team renowned for its dominance and massive fan base, finds itself in an unfamiliar position in the league standings.

The uncertainty and financial woes have added to the pressure on the players and the technical team, led by coach Sifiso ‘Barnes’ Mkhulisi.

Mbabane Highlanders face a challenging end to the first round of the season. The team is set to host league leaders Green Mamba at Mhlume Stadium next weekend before concluding the round with a fixture against Ezulwini United.

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